Cats make great pets. They’re independent, don’t require constant care, and are very loving. But, just because your cat appears to be the polar opposite of a dog (in personality and species) doesn’t mean they don’t require a bath every now and again. Not only is this an opportunity to bond with your feline friend, but it also keeps them happier and healthier.
Start slow.
If you’ve been a cat owner for awhile, then you know it’s not a good idea to scoop him up and just start brushing him one day. Cats need careful, slow introduction to anything new. This includes toys, new environments, and especially grooming.
Slowly get him used to being rubbed and touched by the brush. Let him investigate the tool and become comfortable with it. After a while you can begin to groom him regularly.
Brushing your cat.
Regular brushing helps get rid of dirt and dead hair, along with clearing matted hair and tangles. Always brush your cat’s fur in the same direction that it naturally grows. If you try going any other direction, his fur could become tangled and messy. For short-haired cats, brushing twice a week is plenty. For his long-haired counterpart, you may need to brush once a day.
Bath time.
Bathing your cat probably seems like a terrible idea. Cats don’t even like water, right? How in the world are you supposed to convince him to be patient enough for a bath?
As with the brushing, it’s important to introduce bathing slowly to your cat. Start with a shallow tub filled to about 3 to 4 inches of water and padded with a plastic pad. Introduce him slowly to the water, and only use shampoo that is specifically made for cats. If, even after a slow intro, your cat just won’t get in the tub, try a dry shampoo for the time being and then bring him to a professional groomer.
Taking care of their claws.
Most people opt not to get their cats declawed, which is a good thing. The Humane Society is strongly against the practice, and in many countries around the world it’s actually illegal. If your cat scratches, try getting a scratching post. You can entice him to use it by putting cat litter and other treats in it. This will help him develop the habit of scratching the post rather than your furniture. If he still has issues with clawing and he is injuring you, then start trimming his nails. This doesn’t hurt the cat, but it can take him awhile to get used to it.